Strategies to support the appropriate use of prescription opioids: a systematic review

Reasons for the study

Abuse of prescription opioids is a serious public health and safety problem in North America. To date, there has been no collection, analysis and synthesis of strategies aimed at improving the appropriate use of prescription opioids and reducing misuse, abuse, addiction and opioid-related deaths. This information is desperately needed to stem the current opioid crisis. This comprehensive systematic review of the research literature will help fill this void, thus helping prevent a duplication of efforts in the development of strategies to promote appropriate use of prescription opioids.

Objectives of the study

• To conduct a systematic review of existing strategies, frameworks, collaborative networks and materials to promote the appropriate use of prescription opioids and/or to reduce the abuse of these drugs

Anticipated results/impact

The findings of this review will be relevant to a diverse group of stakeholders with an interest in addressing the current opioid crisis, including health-care and public health professionals, policy-makers, law enforcers, regulators and insurance payers.